Counter Logic Gaming and Immortals trade junglers in roster shake-up

Two League of Legends junglers have traded teams, with former Immortals player Joshua “Dardoch” Hartnett signing with Counter Logic Gaming, and former CLG player Jake “Xmithie” Puchero has signed with Immortals.

Dardoch said that he joined CLG primarily for their strong roster and support staff.

“I think (CLG) can help me improve as a person and player,” said Dardoch in a press release regarding the hire.

“I hope everyone can accept me in place of Xmithie. I understand the concerns you probably have about me joining the roster, given my reputation, as well as it being the first roster change in quite some time for CLG. But I hope you guys support me either way and I’ll do my best to make CLG the best team it can be.”

CLG’s director of esports, Matthew “Trinitiii” Nausha, said in the same press release: “CLG is committed to being the best and winning esports team — continuing the legacy of what made CLG the organization it is today. Dardoch is a young, talented, and passionate player that brings with him an incredible amount of drive.”

Dardoch had a strong finish last year, claiming seventh place with the Immortals. He finished the season with 181 kills, the most of all junglers. However, his 2.8 KDA is the fourth lowest of all league junglers.

He replaces Xmithie, who had a tough season with CLG, with a 2.4KDA, the lowest among all junglers, and 164 deaths: the most for any jungler in that split.

“Part of the task we’ve taken on at IMT is developing younger North American talent, starting in Spring with Cody Sun, and continuing into Summer with two yet-to-be-announced in house substitutes,” said Immortals CEO Noah Whinston. “We’re excited to see the impact that Xmithie’s veteran presence and wealth of experience will have on these promising rookies.”